One person has been arrested in connection with a computer “ransomware” scam that’s hit people in Oklahoma and across the country. Linda Massey of Greenwood, South Carolina, was arrested on mail fraud, racketeering and money laundering charges after she allegedly took part in the scam that conned more than 100 people out of their money. That includes at least one victim here in Oklahoma.
Kitt Letcher of the BBB of Central Oklahoma says that, though one person has been arrested, this threat of this scam is unlikely to go away. Officials say that the after the hacker gains access to your computer, you’ll see a pop-up window that says “ Ransomware Virus”, and you’ll then be instructed to pay a fee to remove the virus from your computer. And even if you pay, the scammers either don’t remove the virus, or steal all your identity information when they do.
If you think you’ve been a victim of the scam, you’re encouraged to call the Better Business Bureau at 405-239-6081 or visit their website at bbb.orr/Oklahoma-city. You can also receive information and assistance from local computer specialists like Computer Solutions Unlimited in Ponca City. Their number is 718-9100.
